Shaped by War
Shaped by War is an exhibition of world-renown photographer, Don McCullin at the Imperial War Museum North. I first came across McCullin’s work in the early 80s when he covered the Beirut crisis. He’s probably most famous for covering the war in Vietnam. His work doesn’t just record the events unfolding but evokes the emotional side of his subjects.
Abandoned Child - Bangladesh
In years to come, I think society will remember McCullin as one of the greatest photographers the world has ever seen. One who brought the worst man can inflict on his fellow man onto our breakfast table.
And what’s all this got to do with advertising? It relates back to my earlier post: ‘You only get out what you put in.’ At the very least, you will see something you have never seen before. If you’re an art director or designer, you might even learn something about composition and layout. McCullin has a brilliant section which pays tribute to the art director at The Sunday Times for how he portrayed his pictures.
If you’re in the Manchester area, I thoroughly recommend a visit to the gallery which is in Salford Quays. Entry’s free but parking is 4 quid.
Some words I would use to describe the exhibition: moving, distressing, incredible, breathtaking, horrifying, harrowing. (Not for the feint hearted.)